Proverbs 23:22

KJV

Hearken unto thy father that begat thee, and despise not thy mother when she is old.

KJV (with Strong's)

Hearken {H8085} unto thy father {H1} that begat {H3205} thee, and despise {H936} not thy mother {H517} when she is old {H2204}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Listen to your father, who gave you life; and don't despise your mother when she gets old.

Berean Standard Bible

Listen to your father who gave you life, and do not despise your mother when she is old.

American Standard Version

Hearken unto thy father that begat thee, And despise not thy mother when she is old.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 23:22 delivers a profound and timeless admonition, urging children to cultivate unwavering respect and attentive obedience toward their parents throughout their lives. It specifically calls for honoring the father who imparted life and for steadfastly refraining from despising the mother, particularly as she enters old age. This verse serves as a cornerstone of biblical wisdom, emphasizing the enduring duty of filial piety, gratitude, and compassionate care within the family unit, reflecting a foundational principle for a well-ordered and righteous life that honors both human origins and divine mandates.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This proverb is strategically situated within a larger section of the book (Proverbs 22:17-24:34) often referred to as the "Sayings of the Wise," a collection of practical instructions and moral exhortations designed to guide individuals in living a life of wisdom and righteousness. The immediate preceding verses [Proverbs 23:19-21](/proverbs/23-19-21 "Proverbs 23:19-21 - Warnings Against Gluttony and Drunkenness") warn against the destructive paths of gluttony and drunkenness, which lead to poverty and ruin, setting a tone of admonition for responsible and disciplined living. Following Proverbs 23:22, the text continues to extol the virtues of acquiring and cherishing wisdom [Proverbs 23:23](/proverbs/23-23 "Proverbs 23:23 - Buy Truth and Do Not Sell It") and the importance of parental instruction, contrasting it with the destructive path of folly and immorality [Proverbs 23:24-28](/proverbs/23-24-28 "Proverbs 23:24-28 - Joy in Righteous Sons and Warnings Against Immorality"). Thus, the call to honor parents is presented not as an isolated command, but as an indispensable component of the wise path, intricately intertwined with other ethical directives essential for a flourishing life and the transmission of godly values.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israelite society, the family (the *bet 'av*, or "father's house") was the fundamental unit of social, economic, and religious life, serving as the primary institution for education and moral formation. Parental authority was paramount, and the transmission of wisdom, faith, and practical skills occurred primarily within the home. The concept of honoring parents was not merely a cultural suggestion but a sacred duty, deeply embedded in the Mosaic Law, notably as the [Fifth Commandment in the Decalogue](/exodus/20-12 "Exodus 20:12 - The Fifth Commandment"). This commandment carried a profound promise of longevity and well-being in the land, underscoring its immense societal and spiritual significance. Furthermore, the elderly held a revered status in ancient Near Eastern cultures, seen as invaluable repositories of wisdom, experience, and tradition. To "despise" an aging parent would have been an egregious offense, a direct violation of both familial and communal norms, reflecting a profound lack of gratitude, respect, and a fundamental breakdown of social order. Such an act would have been viewed as a deep affront to the very fabric of society and divine expectation.
* **Key Themes:** Proverbs 23:22 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Proverbs and broader biblical wisdom literature. Primarily, it underscores the theme of **Filial Piety and Respect**, emphasizing that true wisdom begins with honoring one's origins and those who provided life and instruction. This is a recurring motif throughout Proverbs, as seen in passages like [Proverbs 1:8](/proverbs/1-8 "Proverbs 1:8 - Hear Your Father's Instruction") and [Proverbs 6:20](/proverbs/6-20 "Proverbs 6:20 - Keep Your Father's Command"), where parental teaching is presented as a vital source of life-giving wisdom. Secondly, the verse highlights the theme of **Intergenerational Responsibility and Care for the Vulnerable**. By specifically mentioning the mother "when she is old," it draws acute attention to the particular needs and potential vulnerabilities of aging parents, calling for continued love, dignity, and practical support. This resonates deeply with the broader biblical emphasis on caring for the weak, the dependent, and the marginalized, as found in the Law ([Leviticus 19:32](/leviticus/19-32 "Leviticus 19:32 - Respect for the Aged")) and prophetic literature. Finally, the verse implicitly connects to the theme of **Wisdom's Source and Transmission**. Parents are often depicted in Proverbs as the primary conduits of divine wisdom, and hearkening to them is presented as a foundational pathway to receiving, internalizing, and embodying that wisdom, leading to a life blessed by God and characterized by righteousness.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Hearken (Hebrew, _shâmaʻ'_):** This word (H8085) is far more comprehensive than merely "to hear" sounds. It implies listening with deep understanding, giving diligent attention, and, crucially, obeying. It signifies a receptive heart and a willingness to act upon what is heard. In the context of parental instruction, it means not just passively hearing their words but actively internalizing their counsel, submitting to their authority, and embracing their wisdom as a guiding principle for one's life. This active listening leads to obedience.
* **Despise (Hebrew, _bûwz'_):** The term (H936) denotes a strong sense of scorn, disdain, contempt, or even utter disregard. It is an active rejection of worth or value, a deliberate act of treating someone as insignificant or worthless. The prohibition against despising one's mother, especially in her old age, underscores the profound severity of such an attitude, portraying it as a deep moral and spiritual failing that dishonors the giver of life and disregards their inherent dignity and vulnerability.
* **Old (Hebrew, _zâqên'_):** This word (H2204) refers to being aged or old, describing a person in the latter stages of life. Its inclusion specifically for the mother emphasizes a particular stage of life often characterized by diminished physical strength, increased vulnerability, and potentially greater dependence. The command not to despise her "when she is old" highlights the ongoing and perhaps even intensified need for honor, patience, practical care, and unwavering respect as parents age and their capabilities may wane, reminding children of their enduring duty to provide for those who once provided for them.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Hearken unto thy father that begat thee":** This clause issues a direct, non-negotiable imperative to listen attentively and obediently to one's father. The phrase "that begat thee" serves as a powerful and poignant reminder of the father's fundamental role in giving life, and by extension, providing upbringing, instruction, and moral guidance. It appeals to a deep sense of gratitude and recognition for this foundational contribution, implying that the father's counsel is rooted in love, experience, and a profound desire for the child's well-being and flourishing. This is a call to acknowledge and respect the source of one's physical existence and initial formation.
* **"and despise not thy mother when she is old.":** This second clause complements the first, extending the command of honor to the mother and adding a crucial qualifier regarding her stage of life. It strictly prohibits any form of scorn, contempt, neglect, or disdain towards the mother, particularly emphasizing her vulnerability in old age. This highlights the ongoing, lifelong responsibility of children to care for and honor their parents even when they may be frail, dependent, or perceived as less capable. It underscores the enduring nature of filial duty, love, and practical support, especially when those who once nurtured are now in need of nurture themselves.

#### Literary Devices
Proverbs 23:22 masterfully employs several effective literary devices to convey its profound and urgent message. The verse exhibits **Synthetic Parallelism**, where the second line expands upon or completes the thought of the first, creating a comprehensive command regarding both parents. While not strictly antithetical, the two clauses present complementary aspects of filial duty: active, obedient listening to the father and refraining from contempt towards the aging mother, together forming a complete picture of parental honor. The use of **Imperative Mood** ("Hearken," "despise not") makes the commands direct, forceful, and non-negotiable, emphasizing their moral weight and divine authority. The phrases "that begat thee" and "when she is old" serve as powerful **Appeals to Pathos**, skillfully evoking a sense of gratitude for the gift of life and profound compassion for the vulnerability inherent in old age. These emotional appeals strengthen the ethical and moral force of the commands, making them resonate deeply with the reader's conscience. Furthermore, the mention of "father" and "mother" together functions as a **Merism**, representing the complete parental unit and thus encompassing all aspects of honor, respect, and care due to one's progenitors.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The command to honor parents, as encapsulated in Proverbs 23:22, is a foundational thread woven throughout the entire fabric of biblical revelation, signifying its timeless and universal importance. It is not merely a cultural norm or a suggestion for social harmony, but a divine mandate, reflecting God's design for family order, the transmission of wisdom across generations, and the very nature of respectful authority. This principle underscores the immense value God places on obedience, respect for elders, and the foundational role of the family in shaping individuals and society, and in fostering spiritual formation. Disregarding parents is consistently seen in scripture as a rejection of wisdom, a defiance of divine order, and a pathway to negative consequences, while honoring them is inextricably linked to blessings, longevity, and a flourishing life under God's favor.

* [Exodus 20:12](/exodus/20-12 "Exodus 20:12 - The Fifth Commandment")
* [Deuteronomy 5:16](/deuteronomy/5-16 "Deuteronomy 5:16 - Honor Your Father and Your Mother")
* [Ephesians 6:1-3](/ephesians/6-1 "Ephesians 6:1-3 - Children, Obey Your Parents")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 23:22 calls us to a profound and enduring commitment to our parents, a commitment that transcends the dependency of childhood and extends throughout their lives, especially into their vulnerable later years. In a world that often prioritizes youth, radical independence, and personal ambition, this proverb serves as a powerful counter-cultural reminder of our foundational duties and the sacred bond of family. It challenges us to move beyond mere tolerance or occasional gestures of kindness to cultivate a deep, abiding respect and active, compassionate care for those who gave us life, nurtured us, and imparted wisdom. This includes not only listening to their counsel and valuing their experience, even when our perspectives may differ, but also proactively ensuring their dignity, comfort, and well-being as they age. It's a call to proactive love, unwavering patience, and practical support, remembering the immense sacrifices they made for us and recognizing their enduring worth as image-bearers of God. Our obedience to this proverb is a tangible expression of our gratitude and our understanding of God's design for human relationships.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific ways do I actively "hearken" to the wisdom and counsel of my parents (or parental figures) today, even as an adult, seeking their insight rather than dismissing it?**
* **How do I ensure that I am not "despising" my aging parents, either through neglect, impatience, a lack of practical support, or by devaluing their contributions and experiences?**
* **What tangible steps can I take this week to cultivate a deeper sense of gratitude for my parents' contributions to my life, and how can I express that gratitude meaningfully and consistently?**
* **How does my attitude and treatment of my parents reflect my understanding of God's command to honor them, and what areas might require repentance and growth?**

### FAQ
**What does "hearken unto thy father that begat thee" truly imply?**

Answer: "Hearken" (Hebrew: *shâmaʻ*, H8085) means much more than just hearing sounds passively. It implies listening with understanding, giving careful and diligent attention, and, most importantly, obeying. The phrase "that begat thee" emphasizes the father's foundational role in giving you life and, by extension, providing instruction, guidance, and shaping your upbringing. So, the command means to attentively receive, internalize, and act upon the wise counsel and instruction of your father, acknowledging his foundational role in your existence and formation. It's about respecting his authority, valuing his experience, and submitting to his guidance for your own good.

**Why is there a specific mention of "despise not thy mother when she is old"?**

Answer: This specific mention highlights the particular vulnerability of mothers (and parents in general) in old age. As individuals grow old, they may experience declining physical and mental faculties, potentially leading to increased dependence, frailty, and a greater need for care. The command to "despise not" (Hebrew: *bûwz*, H936, meaning scorn, contempt, or utter disregard) underscores the severe moral offense of neglecting, disrespecting, or showing disdain for an aging parent, especially one who has poured her life into nurturing her children. It emphasizes the enduring, lifelong duty of children to provide continued love, dignity, and practical care for their parents, even when their needs change and they may no longer be as capable as they once were. This aligns with broader biblical principles of caring for the vulnerable and respecting the aged, as profoundly stated in [Leviticus 19:32](/leviticus/19-32 "Leviticus 19:32 - Respect for the Aged"): "You shall rise before the gray head and honor the face of an old man, and you shall fear your God: I am the LORD."

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 23:22 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. While the proverb calls us to honor earthly parents, Jesus perfectly embodied this principle in His own life, providing the supreme example. He was [subject to His earthly parents, Mary and Joseph](/luke/2-51 "Luke 2:51 - Jesus' Obedience to His Parents"), demonstrating perfect obedience and respect within the human family unit, even as a child. More significantly, Jesus perfectly "hearkened" to His heavenly Father, living a life of absolute and unwavering obedience, always doing [what pleased the Father](/john/8-29 "John 8:29 - Jesus Always Pleases the Father") and perfectly fulfilling His will. His entire mission, from incarnation to crucifixion, was an act of profound filial submission to the Father's divine plan, even to the point of death on the cross. Furthermore, even in His agony on the cross, Jesus did not "despise" His mother when she was old (or nearing old age and facing immense grief), but rather made specific and tender provision for her care, entrusting her to the beloved disciple John, saying, ["Woman, behold your son!" and to the disciple, "Behold your mother!"](/john/19-26 "John 19:26-27 - Jesus Cares for His Mother"). This act of selfless care, even in His final, excruciating moments, perfectly illustrates the spirit of the proverb. Through Christ, we are adopted into God's family, receiving a new Father who "begat" us spiritually by His Spirit (cf. [John 1:12-13](/john/1-12 "John 1:12-13 - Children of God") and [Romans 8:15](/romans/8-15 "Romans 8:15 - Spirit of Adoption")). Our ultimate "hearkening" is now to Him, our Heavenly Father, and our ultimate freedom from "despising" anyone, especially our parents, comes through His transformative grace, enabling us to love and honor both God and our earthly parents as He did.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Proverbs 30:17

The eye [that] mocketh at [his] father, and despiseth to obey [his] mother, the ravens of the valley shall pick it out, and the young eagles shall eat it.

Proverbs 1:8

My son, hear the instruction of thy father, and forsake not the law of thy mother:

Ephesians 6:1

¶ Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right.

Ephesians 6:2

Honour thy father and mother; (which is the first commandment with promise;)

John 19:26

When Jesus therefore saw his mother, and the disciple standing by, whom he loved, he saith unto his mother, Woman, behold thy son!

John 19:27

Then saith he to the disciple, Behold thy mother! And from that hour that disciple took her unto his own [home].

Proverbs 6:20

¶ My son, keep thy father's commandment, and forsake not the law of thy mother: